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The Southernmost Part of this Globe', Part II -- Auckland, 1976

Sometimes there will be a little misunderstanding between Godbrothers. That is even going on amongst the liberated souls. What is important is that everyone must engage in Krishna's service under the direction of the spiritual master.

Srila Prabhupada, from a letter to Ralph Stevenson

Despite Prabhupada's desire that all his disciples work together co-operatively, tension still remained between the "inside" and "outside" factions of devotees in Australia and New Zealand. The situation in Auckland had become particularly critical. Although programs went on daily at the ISKCON temple, they were sparsely attended. On the other hand, groups of devotees living outside held gatherings that regularly attracted large groups. It was not uncommon to see two harinama parties on Queen Street: a modest group of traditionally dressed temple devotees on one side of the road playing mrdanga and karatals and a large contingent -- sometimes more than 60 or 70 -- dressed in Western clothes and with long hair, strumming guitars and beating conga drums on the other side.

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Since his initial contact with Srila Prabhupada on the campus of Auckland University in 1972, Ralph Stevenson had taken Krsna consciousness seriously. He visited the temple regularly, and also attended various Krsna conscious events around Auckland. He found the situation with the two camps confusing. While some devotees at the temple advised guests to avoid the "outside" groups, members of those outside groups sometimes suggested to their visitors that they not visit the temple. Finding a lack of clear direction, Ralph wrote to Srila Prabhupada, who clarified the hazy issue.

There is no reason why you cannot associate with any of my disciples, providing that they adhere to our principles. As long as Siddha Svarapa Maharaja and Tusta Krishna Maharaja act as sannyasis, i.e. dress in dhoti, keep shave-headed with sikha, follow strictly the rules and regulations and preach from my books, I have no objection."

Prabhupada's correspondence during this volatile period demonstrated his expertise in conciliation. Although his idea of what to do was definite, his method of teaching it was careful and gradual. He remained equipoised and detached from party divisions, knowing well the difficult task of satisfying divergent views held by his strong-minded disciples.

He wrote to Madhudvisa Swami:

Even if somebody does not go in one line with the rest of the Godbrothers, he can remain separately, but it does not mean that he may disobey the principles that I have laid down. So long as one follows the principles, he continues to be my disciple.

To Bhurijana:

A difference between Godbrothers is natural. The difference of opinion will continue, what can be done? Siddha Svarupananda Maharaja and his group, whenever they see me, they give me money. So they are not against me. So it is a natural thing for the brothers to fight, as long as they all stay obedient to the father.

And to Tusta Krsna Swami:

I have no objection to your recommending these devotees for initiation. But whether you are acting as a sannyasi and observing all the rules and regulations and keeping yourself in sannyasi dress? On your confirmation, I shall accept all these boys and girls as my disciples. So long as one continues to follow the rules and regulations, he continues to be my disciple wherever he may be.


- From "The Great Transcendental Adventure" by HG Kurma Prabhu